Arkansas renewal guide
Commercial General Contractor
If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.
Start here
What matters before you file.
Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 24 months
Renewal fee
$50.00
Late penalty
$100.00
Bond requirement
Yes — $10,000.00
Insurance requirement
Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Make sure the bond still clears
The $10,000.00 bond requirement needs to stay active through the renewal.
- 2
Check the insurance certificates
Make sure the required policies are current and match what the board or agency expects before you file.
- 3
File with the board
File through Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB) and pay the $50.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 4
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 30 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
If you miss the deadline, the late penalty is $100.00.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Arkansas Commercial General Contractor License
The Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB) issues commercial general contractor licenses for contractors performing work on commercial projects valued at $50,000 or more. This license authorizes holders to bid on and perform general contracting work on commercial structures throughout the state.
What This License Authorizes
Commercial General Contractors may perform or supervise construction, renovation, and demolition of commercial buildings, including offices, retail spaces, warehouses, and public facilities. The full (unrestricted) commercial license has no project value cap, while a restricted commercial license limits projects to under $750,000.
Application Requirements
- Application Fee: $100 (non-refundable)
- Examination: Must pass the Arkansas Business and Law exam administered by Prometric (exam fee: $84)
- Financial Statement: Full commercial license requires an Audited or Reviewed Financial Statement from a CPA; restricted license requires a Compiled Financial Statement
- Business References: Three non-supplier or banker references required
Bond and Insurance Requirements
- Surety Bond: $10,000 bond required, filed with the ACLB
- General Liability Insurance: Certificate of insurance in the business name required
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees
Renewal Process
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years (biennial)
- Renewal Fee: $50
- Late Fee: $100 if renewal is not completed by the expiration date
- No Continuing Education Required: Maintain current bond, insurance, and financial statements throughout the license term.
Consequences of Operating Without a License
Performing commercial contracting work without a valid ACLB license is a Class A misdemeanor under Arkansas law (Ark. Code Ann. SS 17-25-103). Fines range from $100 to $200 per offense, with each day of unlicensed work counted as a separate violation. The ACLB may refer cases to the Arkansas Attorney General for prosecution.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- Bond Certificate
- Financial Statement
- business_references
Source notes
Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board . Verified March 2026. https://www.aclb.arkansas.gov/
Rules move. Check Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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Next steps
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Printable checklist
Arkansas checklist
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